Since 1970, the American Red Cross celebrates the National Blood Donor Month in January to pay tribute to donors who give blood each year. It’s also a time to encourage blood donors since the number of blood donors decreases during the winter months.

Due to icy roads and flu season, blood donors cancel their appointment on blood drives.  This means that it takes away 10% of blood donors according to the American Red Cross. The urgency to this issue is critical because approximately 40,000 units of  blood are needed per day and its supply is decreasing.

In order to to reduce the decreasing factor, volunteer opportunities are always available at your local donor center, or contact the American Red Cross to schedule an appointment.  There’s also opportunities available at your school and it sponsored by CHI St. Luke’s Health and Baylor College of Medicine Blood Center.  NHS also sponsors two blood drives per year.

The Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) is currently hosting a blood drive which will be held on Thursday, January 19th, 2017. You need to be 17+ years in order to be qualified.